"I Feel Stuck In My Career!"

I feel somewhat stuck in my current career as a chef. I have been a cook and chef for over 20 years, but I'm not getting any younger, what is the best way to get into management?

Steve, FL

Answer:

Hi Steve,

First of all, do you want to stay in the hospitality and food service industry? Do you like the business? And, most importantly, have you ever applied for management roles? I am asking that last question because a lot of people never apply to management positions. Did you know that? Did you know that the higher-level positions get less attention and resumes then the lower level positions? Most people just "feel" they're not qualified, or they don't have the additional schooling.

Don't let school slow you down, sometimes your years of experience will be miles ahead of any schooling out there. If you need or feel you should take some management classes that will help you, do it. Maybe you can take some of these on the Internet? Maybe you can get your employer to pay for additional schooling? Have you enquired about that? Don't look for reasons why you can't do something, look for reasons why you can!

You might be able to move into management more than you think. I would not let the requirements you are reading in these help wanted advertisements hold you back. Apply to these management positions. What's the worst thing that can happen? You don't get hired and you stay as a chef, right? Big deal! Go for it! I hope this helps.